The Melbourne Stars (STA) will face the Sydney Sixers (SIX) in Match 28 of the Big Bash League 2024-25 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The Stars come into this game after a morale-boosting win against the Melbourne Renegades in the derby. Despite their victory, they remain at the bottom of the table with just two wins from seven matches, making this a must-win contest to keep their playoff hopes alive. Meanwhile, the Sixers sit comfortably at the top of the standings with four wins from six matches. Their previous game against the Brisbane Heat was abandoned due to rain, but the Sixers have been consistent throughout the tournament. The return of Steven Smith, who was superb at the BGT, adds more strength to their squad.
Match Details: Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers
- Match: Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers, BBL 14
- Date: Thursday, January 9, 2025
- Time: 1:45 PM IST / 8:15 AM GMT / 07:15 PM Local
- Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne
Pitch Report and Weather Conditions: Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Pitch Report
The MCG pitch traditionally offers pace and bounce, making it a haven for fast bowlers early on. However, as the match progresses, the surface becomes favorable for batters, especially in the second innings. Spinners have also found success on this surface, with better averages and strike rates compared to pacers.
- Average First Innings Score: 160-170
- Chasing Advantage: Teams chasing have enjoyed success due to better batting conditions under lights.
Pace vs Spin at MCG (Since 2022/23)
| Type | Balls | Wickets | Economy Rate | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacers | 1717 | 86 | 7.91 | 19.9 |
| Spinners | 968 | 46 | 6.84 | 21.0 |
Venue Details: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
The MCG is a bowler-friendly pitch that offers plenty of pace and bounce. The average first-innings score here in the last 10 matches is around 147 runs. Spinners have a better economy rate compared to pacers.
Pitch Type:
- Surface: Flat with pace and bounce.
- Pacers: Dominate early overs.
- Spinners: Effective in the middle overs.
Weather Conditions
- Temperature: 30°C
- Humidity: 40%
- Rain Probability: Minimal, with clear skies expected.
Melbourne Stars Team Preview
The Melbourne Stars finally ended their losing streak with a crucial win over the Renegades. However, their top order remains a concern, with only a few players consistently contributing. Ben Duckett’s recent form is a positive sign, and the Stars will hope for more from their experienced all-rounders.
Probable Playing XI:
- Ben Duckett
- Thomas Fraser Rogers
- Sam Harper (wk)
- Daniel Lawrence
- Marcus Stoinis (c)
- Glenn Maxwell
- Hilton Cartwright
- Usama Mir
- Joel Paris
- Mark Steketee
- Peter Siddle
Key Players to Watch:
- Ben Duckett: The opener has been in good form, with two fifties in his last three innings.
- Marcus Stoinis: The all-rounder scored a crucial 48 runs in the last match and will be key with both bat and ball.
- Glenn Maxwell: A dangerous finisher, Maxwell’s quickfire 20 off 10 balls helped seal the Stars’ last win.
Sydney Sixers Team Preview
The Sixers have been the most consistent team this season, with four wins in six matches. They will be boosted by the return of Steven Smith, who adds immense experience to their batting lineup. Their bowling attack, led by Ben Dwarshuis, has been impressive, with spinners also playing a key role.
Probable Playing XI:
- Josh Philippe (wk)
- James Vince
- Kurtis Patterson
- Moises Henriques (c)
- Jordan Silk
- Jack Edwards
- Hayden Kerr
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Akeal Hosein
- Todd Murphy
- Jackson Bird
Key Players to Watch:
- James Vince: The leading run-scorer for the Sixers, with 175 runs in five matches.
- Ben Dwarshuis: The left-arm pacer has taken 10 wickets in five matches.
- Josh Philippe: An aggressive top-order batter, he has scored 154 runs so far this season.
Head-to-Head Record
- Matches Played: 23
- Melbourne Stars Wins: 8
- Sydney Sixers Wins: 15
Match Prediction
The Sydney Sixers have been in dominant form and appear to be the stronger side on paper. However, the Melbourne Stars will have the home advantage at the MCG and will look to string together back-to-back wins. Despite their inconsistent top order, the Stars’ lower-middle order depth could be crucial.
Prediction: Sydney Sixers to win.
Betting Tips
- Bet on Sydney Sixers to win.
- Watch out for James Vince and Ben Dwarshuis as top performers for the Sixers.
- Ben Duckett and Marcus Stoinis could be key for the Stars.
Dream11 Fantasy Prediction: Top Picks
Predicted Winner: Sydney Sixers
Where to Watch BBL match between MLS vs SIX in India
The match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and can also be streamed online on the Disney+ Hotstar App. The action kicks off at 1:45 PM IST on January 9, 2025.
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